Wednesday, September 14, 2016

ArtyA Chrono Tourbillon Monopusher Full Engraved 1/1

A few months ago, ArtyA announced the launch of its ‘Complications’ collection, focusing on three key aspects. Firstly a tourbillon made entirely either by independent master watchmakers or by ArtyA’s manufacture, SC2, located right in the centre of Geneva.

Secondly, the development of brand new complications – new not just for the brand, but also for watchmaking as a whole. And thirdly, producing work that is systematically complicated, in the noble sense of the word, featuring intricate materials and finishes. This type of creativity is a favourite preserve of ArtyA – one which turns out to be equally if not more delicate than some purely mechanical developments.

The Chrono Tourbillon Monopusher Full Engraved is all of this at once – and more besides. Right from the first glance, the aesthetic appearance of the watch is an attention-grabber, with a dizzying succession of circular shapes. The oval movement is housed in ArtyA’s master worked case, entirely hand engraved with 24cts gold inlay, made by our favourite master engraver: Bram Ramon. In its turn, the oval-shaped movement within the case holds the perfect circles of the chronograph and tourbillon counters.

On the dial side, the Tourbillon Monopusher Chronograph showcases goldsmiths’ craftsmanship. The skeletonization is painstakingly cut out around each bridge and counter, featuring alternating shades of grey, and satin and polished finishes.

The piece has symmetrical 30-minute and 60-second counters to the left and right respectively, whilst leaving plenty of room for the other components within this mechanical composition with a difference: the tourbillon at 6 o’clock, column wheel at 12 o’clock, and power reserve at 9 o’clock. The power reserve lasts a very generous five days.

On the rear side: an extra-large Calendar with a centrally positioned hand. This is a first for ArtyA – and probably for watchmaking as a whole. Like a conspiratorial wink, reserved for the owner of this unique timepiece alone, the extra-large Calendar is a genuine complication developed especially for the Tourbillon Monopusher Chronograph.